Interactive learning platform for programmable logic controllers with a web application

Abstract

Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) are one of the most used controllers for automated facilities nowadays. Hence, knowledge of PLC programming and system implementation is essential for automation related education curricula. This paper proposes an Interactive Learning Platform (ILP) for PLCs. The design specifications of the proposed ILP have been identified based on the background study conducted. The proposed ILP for PLCs has been designed using Siemens S7- 1200 as the main controller. An object sorting mechanism that includes diverse types of sensors and actuators is proposed as laboratory exercises that could be performed using the proposed ILP. A web interface has been designed to control the object sorting process. This is the major value addition of the proposed ILP for PLCs compared to the existing learning facilities for PLCs. Simulation has also been carried out using SIMATIC STEP 7 Totally Integrated Automation (TIA) Portal V14 software to validate the operation of the ILP. Furthermore, laboratory exercises and tutorials have been designed to facilitate challenging learning goals. A prototype of the proposed ILP for PLCs has been developed and experiments have been conducted to evaluate the performance of the proposed ILP. Based on the results, the proposed ILP for PLCs facilitates better learning.